Life

Recently divorced? A brief guide to start your new life

Despite your best efforts, some relationships aren’t meant to last.

When you have spent years nurturing a relationship, there can be nothing more devastating than watching its demise.

Whether highly contested or amicable, a divorce can leave you feeling emotionally drained and lost.

While it will take time to heal from the end of a relationship, we’re sharing some tips to help you with new beginnings.

Don’t rush

You may want to quickly move on from the relationship and start your new life, but that’s not as easy as it sounds.

You put so much time and energy into making the marriage last, but unfortunately, things didn’t work out.

Instead of rushing through the feeling, it’s healthier to grieve the relationship and allow yourself some grace.

Reclaim your name

If you took your ex-partner’s last name, it could be a bitter reminder of your failed marriage.

Why not reclaim your maiden name?

Going back to your last name can help you feel empowered.

You can officially change your name with the help of a deed poll.

Protect yourself

Some marriages come to a natural end, while others break on a bittersweet note.

In any case, it’s important to protect yourself legally and financially.

Even if you trust your ex-spouse, it’s a good idea to consult an experienced attorney.

The last thing you want is to end up in an unfavourable financial situation or lose child custody.

Lean on your support group

Now more than ever, you need to lean on your friends and family for support.

Whenever you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, don’t hesitate to give your friends a call and talk it out.

Pay attention to kids

A divorce can be just as traumatising and confusing for kids.

You and your ex-spouse should take every measure to ensure stability in your kids’ lives.

Pay attention to their concerns and make them feel safe.

Look after your health

From the loss of appetite to binge eating unhealthy food, something as tumultuous as a divorce can severely impact your health.

It’s imperative to look after yourself and make healthy choices, so focus on eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

Seek professional help

Though your support system surely wants to help you, they may not always have the right advice.

If you’ve been struggling with the divorce, there is no harm in seeking professional help.

Talking to a therapist can help you gain clarity and move on.

Reinvent your look

Countless movies out there have shown the protagonist reinventing their looks post-breakup, which is more than just a cliche movie trope.

Changing your hairstyle or updating your wardrobe can add a pep to your step and help you see yourself in a different light.

Enjoy being single

When was the last time you were single?

Relationships can be incredibly fulfilling, but they can also trap you in a codependency rut.

If you felt like you lost yourself and your individual identity in your marriage, it’s time to spend some quality time with yourself.

Get back into dating pool

Everyone’s timeline is different.

If you feel like you’re ready to get back into the dating pool, don’t let anyone make you feel embarrassed about it.

Just because your marriage ended doesn’t mean you cannot have a meaningful connection with someone new.

When it’s time to move on, ask your friends to set you up with someone or give dating apps a try.

Wrapping up

Going through a divorce may be the most difficult thing you have ever done.

But eventually, you will move on, rebuild your life and find happiness.

Featured image credit: Divorce Lawyers Las Vegas via Wikimedia Commons under CC BY-SA 4.0 license

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